Autor: Pinheiro

  • EU Multilingual International Certificate Template

    EU Multilingual International Certificate Template: Advantages and Applications

    The “EU multilingual international certificate template” is a type of standardized official document that facilitates the recognition of civil records (such as birth, marriage, death) among the member states of the European Union (EU).

    Advantages of the EU Multilingual International Certificate Template

    • No need for translation (as it is multilingual – it already contains the respective translations).
    • Generally, no need for apostille, as it is recognized as an official document between EU countries (for countries outside the EU, an apostille might be required).

    These certificates are created according to models established by international conventions, such as the 1976 Vienna Convention, and are available in multiple languages, helping eliminate language barriers and simplifying cross-border bureaucracy.

    We issue the EU multilingual international certificate template and send it to any country by mail. Contact us!

    Apostille

    Technically, the EU multilingual international certificate template does not require an apostille. However, there are reports that some public service desk workers are unaware of this fact and mistakenly demand an apostille. To avoid inconvenience, many people prefer to apostille.

    Application Example

    If a Portuguese citizen needs to present their birth certificate in Germany, they can use the multilingual version issued by Portugal. This certificate will be automatically recognized by German authorities, eliminating the need for an apostille.

    Main Features

    Multilingualism

    The certificates are issued in several languages (English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, etc.), typically including all official EU languages. This facilitates the understanding and acceptance of the document in any member country without the need for an official translation.

    Standardized Models

    There are specific models for different types of certificates, such as birth, marriage, and death. These models follow a uniform format, established by EU legislation, ensuring consistency and acceptance across member states.

    Administrative Simplification

    These certificates simplify administrative processes such as marriage registration, citizenship application, or diploma validation, as they are automatically recognized in all EU member states.

    International Application

    Although designed to facilitate the movement of people and documents within the EU, these certificates can also be useful in countries outside the EU that recognize the convention or have bilateral agreements with EU countries.

    Use and Benefits

    Legal Recognition

    Facilitates the legal recognition of personal and family documents in different countries.

    Cost Reduction

    Reduces the need for certified translations and additional legalizations, thus lowering costs for citizens.

    Agility

    Speeds up administrative processes, such as moving residence, school, and university enrollments, and other public services.

    Birth Certificate

    A birth certificate issued in the international (multilingual) model will contain all relevant information in all the languages listed above, allowing authorities in any EU member country to understand and accept the document without the need for additional translation.

    Marriage Certificate

    Similarly, a marriage certificate issued in the international (multilingual) model will be understandable to any authority or institution within the EU.

    Practical Example

    If a Portuguese citizen needs to register their child’s birth in Germany, they can use the multilingual international birth certificate. This document will be directly recognized by German authorities, without the need for official translation or additional legalization procedures.

    Benefits

    Recognition Without Translation

    The main advantage is that these certificates are automatically recognized in any EU country without the need for official translation, saving time and resources for citizens.

    Ease of Use

    These certificates are particularly useful for citizens living, working, or conducting business in more than one EU country, facilitating cross-border administrative processes.

    Adriano Martins Pinheiro, lawyer in Portugal

    EU multilingual international certificate template

     

    Common Languages Included:

    • German (Deutsch)
    • Bulgarian (Български)
    • Croatian (Hrvatski)
    • Danish (Dansk)
    • Slovak (Slovenčina)
    • Slovenian (Slovenščina)
    • Spanish (Español)
    • Estonian (Eesti)
    • Finnish (Suomi)
    • French (Français)
    • Greek (Ελληνικά)
    • Hungarian (Magyar)
    • English (English)
    • Irish (Gaeilge)
    • Italian (Italiano)
    • Latvian (Latviešu)
    • Lithuanian (Lietuvių)
    • Maltese (Malti)
    • Dutch (Nederlands)
    • Polish (Polski)
    • Portuguese (Português)
    • Romanian (Română)
    • Swedish (Svenska)

    Reference Sources:

    1976 Vienna Convention on the Issuance of Multilingual Extracts from Civil Status Records

    Foreigners and Borders Service (SEF), Portugal

    Europa Portal

    1976 Vienna Convention

    Europa Portal – Civil Certificates and Documentation.

     

  • Our Office Offers Apostille Services for Criminal Record Certificates in Portugal

    Our Office Offers Apostille Services for Criminal Record Certificates in Portugal

    Our office provides apostille services for criminal record certificates in Portugal, ensuring you receive the document quickly and efficiently.

    How Does the Process Work?

    Step 1: Issuance of the criminal record certificate (if the client does not yet have the PDF certificate).
    Step 2: Apostille of the issued certificate.
    Step 3: Request for a quote for sending the document by mail (e.g., DHL).
    Step 4: Client pays for the shipping costs.
    Step 5: Sending of the document and providing the tracking code for delivery tracking.

    🔗  Make a request for apostille

    How to Issue the Criminal Record Certificate?

    If the client is outside Portugal, there are two options:

    Option 1 – Access Code

    The client sends a copy of the certificate with a 12-digit access code. With this code, our office can issue and apostille a new certificate. The client can also directly issue the criminal record certificate via the “Registo Criminal Online” platform, as long as they have a Citizen Card or Digital Mobile Key. This is the fastest and most economical option.

    Option 2 – Authorization Declaration

    If the client does not have a certificate with an access code, the lawyer will need to request the document in person. For this, a signed authorization declaration and a copy of the passport will be required. We draw up the declaration for the client to sign. All you have to do is send your details and a copy of your passport.

    How to Request the Certificate via Registo Criminal Online?

    Go to the “Registo Criminal Online” website, log in with your Citizen Card or Digital Mobile Key, fill out the form, and pay the applicable fee. If you can issue it online, you should choose Option 2 (authorization declaration).

    How to Check the Certificate via Registo Criminal Online?

    Anyone can check the certificate online using the access code on the document. The lawyer can use this code to access and print the certificate.

    Public Service Fees

    The Portuguese government charges the following fees:

    – Issuance of the criminal record certificate: €5
    – Apostille of the certificate: €10.20

    Aditional Expenses

    In addition to public fees, the client should consider: – Office fees for the service;
    – Shipping costs by mail (e.g., DHL).

    Document Delivery

    A shipping quote will be requested from the postal service, and the price will depend on the weight and destination. The client will receive a tracking code to follow the delivery.

    Summary

    If you do not yet have the online-issued criminal record certificate, we can issue it for you. Additionally, we can apostille the certificate and send it to your address by mail. We ship to any country, using DHL courier services.

    Fee Proposal

    To request the service, contact us at: pinheiro@advocaciapinheiro.com, WhatsApp ou SMS.

    Please inform us if you already have the criminal record certificate in PDF (with an access code) or if you need the lawyer to request it in person at the government service counter.

    Author: Adriano Martins Pinheiro, Lawyer in Portugal

  • Main Problems at AIMA Affecting Immigrants

    The lack of structure at AIMA is one of the biggest challenges faced by immigrants in Portugal. Many people are stuck in an endless waiting cycle, unable to get responses or move forward with their processes.

    Here are some of the most common challenges:

    1. Difficulty in Scheduling Appointments

    The appointment process at AIMA is one of the most critical points. To be attended, immigrants must schedule a time by phone. However, many times there are no available slots, leaving people without any forecast for service. Without this appointment, it becomes impossible to move forward with residency renewal processes or family reunification requests.

    2. Delays in Issuing and Renewing Residence Permits

    Another recurring problem is the delay in AIMA issuing or renewing residence permits. There are reports of immigrants waiting for over a year for a response. This delay can have serious consequences, such as difficulties in working, studying, or accessing basic services.

    3. Lack of Response to Emails and Pending Processes

    In addition to difficulties in phone and in-person service, AIMA is known for not responding to emails efficiently, which further aggravates the frustration of immigrants. There are over 400 pending processes with no forecast of resolution or progress.

    4. Difficulty with Family Reunification

    Many immigrants in Portugal wish to bring their families through family reunification. However, the lack of appointment slots and the delay in processes make this almost unattainable for many. Without adequate assistance, families remain separated for months or even years.

    How a Specialized Lawyer Can Help

    The good news is that these problems can be resolved more efficiently with the help of a specialized immigration lawyer. The lawyer knows the legal deadlines and rules that AIMA must follow and can act both administratively and judicially to ensure that your rights are respected.

    1. Administrative Intervention

    Through administrative means, a lawyer can act directly with AIMA, forcing a response and tracking the process. Unlike regular emails that are often ignored, AIMA is obliged to respond to demands made by lawyers. This ensures that your case receives the necessary attention and does not remain stagnant.

    2. Judicial Process

    If AIMA continues to fail to meet deadlines or issue a decision on your case, a lawyer can file a legal action to demand that the agency fulfill its legal obligation. This is an efficient solution for those who have been waiting for a long time without answers.

    3. Family Reunification

    In the case of family reunification, a lawyer can help expedite the process and ensure that the family’s rights are respected, shortening the waiting time and increasing the chances of success in the application.

    When Should You Seek a Lawyer?

    If you have been waiting for months for a response from AIMA, cannot schedule an appointment, or your residence permit renewal is delayed, it’s time to consider the help of an immigration lawyer. The lawyer can ensure that your process moves forward and that you get the expected result within the legal deadlines.

    Additionally, a lawyer can assist you with:

    • Updating personal data with AIMA
    • Naturalization and citizenship processes
    • Advice on work and study visas
    • Legal support in case of denied requests

    Conclusion

    AIMA’s lack of structure is a problem affecting thousands of immigrants in Portugal, but it does not have to be an insurmountable obstacle. With the help of a specialized lawyer, you can overcome these problems, get a quicker response, and ensure that your rights are respected.

    If you are facing difficulties with AIMA and need legal assistance, contact our office. We are ready to help you resolve your case quickly and efficiently, using our extensive experience in immigration law.

    Schedule a consultation now and discover how we can help you!

    Adriano Martins Pinheiro | Immigration Lawyer in Portugal

  • The Importance of Consulting a Lawyer: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Professional Guidance

    The Importance of Consulting a Lawyer: Protect Your Rights and Avoid Losses

    Consulting a lawyer is a crucial step to ensure your rights are protected and that you make informed decisions. However, many individuals neglect to seek advice from a qualified professional, which can result in serious consequences, including financial losses and irreversible damage. This article explores the importance of consulting a lawyer, the reasons why some people do not do so, and the implications of this choice.

    Why Some People Do Not Consult Lawyers

    Studies show that various factors contribute to individuals not seeking legal advice. A study conducted by the American Bar Association revealed that up to 80% of American citizens face legal issues without the assistance of a lawyer. The main reasons include:

    • Lack of Awareness of Importance: Many people do not understand the benefits of consulting a lawyer until they face serious issues. A study published in the Journal of Law and Society highlighted that lack of awareness about the benefits of legal advice is a significant factor.
    • Perceived Cost: The perception that legal consultation is expensive can discourage people from seeking help. According to a report by the Legal Services Corporation, many individuals mistakenly believe that they should only consult a lawyer for complex or costly cases.
    • Cultural and Social Barriers: Issues related to social class and cultural background also play a role. People from lower socio-economic backgrounds or with less education often have less access to information about the benefits of legal advice. A study in the Harvard Law Review indicated that lack of access to educational resources and information about legal services contributes to this gap.

    Seeking Advice from Unqualified Individuals

    It is common for individuals to seek advice from friends, family, or others who are not specialized in the field instead of consulting a qualified lawyer. This practice can be detrimental as these sources may lack the necessary training or experience to provide proper guidance. A study published in Legal Ethics revealed that following unqualified advice can lead to wrong decisions and unfavorable legal outcomes.

    Why Some Do Not Consider Consulting a Lawyer a Priority

    For many, consulting a lawyer is not seen as a priority due to factors such as:

    • Lack of Perceived Urgency: Some individuals only seek legal advice when they are already facing a severe problem, rather than as a preventive measure.
    • Distrust in the System: There is a widespread distrust in the legal system and lawyers, often fueled by past negative experiences or stereotypes.

    Consequences of Not Seeking Legal Advice

    The absence of legal guidance can have serious consequences:

    • Loss of Time and Money: Without proper guidance, individuals may waste time and resources on poorly managed legal processes. Studies show that lack of legal assistance can lead to significant delays and increased costs (Source: Legal Aid Society).
    • Financial Losses: Mistakes or inadequate decisions can result in substantial financial losses. A study by the National Center for State Courts highlighted that legal consultation can help avoid unnecessary expenses and fines.
    • Irreversible Damage: In severe cases, the lack of guidance can lead to irreversible damage, such as loss of legal rights or property.

    Conclusion

    Consulting a lawyer is a critical step to ensure your rights are protected and that you are making informed decisions. The absence of legal advice can lead to serious and irreversible consequences. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the importance of seeking the help of a qualified professional and not relying on unqualified advice.

    If you are facing legal issues or need guidance on any aspect of the law, contact the Adriano Martins Pinheiro Law Firm. We are here to provide the specialized legal assistance you need to ensure your interests are protected and that you make informed decisions.

  • Problemas con AIMA: Cómo un Abogado de Inmigración Puede Resolver Sus Procesos en Portugal

    Abogado de Inmigración en Portugal

    En el Despacho de Adriano Martins Pinheiro, especializado en derecho de inmigración en Portugal, entendemos los desafíos que enfrentan los inmigrantes con los procesos de inmigración, especialmente con la AIMA (Agencia para la Integración, Migraciones y Asilo). Los problemas con AIMA pueden ser frustrantes y complicados. Nuestro objetivo es ofrecer soluciones jurídicas efectivas para superar estos obstáculos.

    Problemas Comunes con AIMA

    Muchos inmigrantes experimentan dificultades significativas al intentar obtener o renovar su título de residencia en Portugal. Además, enfrentan largos retrasos en el reagrupamiento familiar y en otros servicios esenciales. Los problemas frecuentes incluyen:

    • Dificultades para Agendar Citas: La disponibilidad para agendar citas con AIMA suele ser limitada, causando retrasos importantes.
    • Falta de Respuesta a Solicitudes: Muchos inmigrantes reportan que sus solicitudes y correos electrónicos no reciben respuesta.
    • Incumplimiento de Plazos Legales: A veces, AIMA no cumple con los plazos legales para emitir decisiones y documentos.

    Cómo Podemos Ayudar

    Nuestro despacho de derecho de inmigración está preparado para abordar estos problemas de manera efectiva:

    • Intervención Administrativa Directa: Trabajamos directamente con AIMA para asegurarnos de que su solicitud reciba la atención adecuada. AIMA está obligada a responder a las solicitudes presentadas por abogados.
    • Acciones Judiciales: Si AIMA no cumple con los plazos legales o no toma decisiones, podemos presentar acciones judiciales para acelerar el proceso.
    • Asistencia en Reagrupamiento Familiar y Otros Procedimientos: Ofrecemos apoyo en todos los aspectos relacionados con la inmigración, como reagrupamiento familiar y naturalización.

    Consulta Online – La Mejor Forma de Comenzar

    Cada situación migratoria es única. Por eso, puede agendar una consulta online con nuestro despacho antes de contratar cualquier servicio. En esta consulta inicial, analizaremos su caso en detalle y le presentaremos las mejores opciones para resolver su situación con AIMA u otras autoridades migratorias en Portugal.

    Contáctenos

    Si enfrenta problemas con AIMA o cualquier otro proceso migratorio en Portugal, contacte al Despacho de Adriano Martins Pinheiro. Agende una consulta online y descubra cómo podemos ayudarle a resolver su caso de manera rápida y eficiente.

  • Presentación del Despacho de Adriano Martins Pinheiro – Especializado en Derecho de Inmigración en Portugal

    Especializado en Derecho de Inmigración en Portugal

    Bienvenido al Despacho de Adriano Martins Pinheiro, especializado en derecho de inmigración en Portugal. Entendemos las dificultades y desafíos que enfrentan los inmigrantes al gestionar sus procesos migratorios, especialmente en su interacción con la AIMA (Agencia para la Integración, Migraciones y Asilo).

    Nuestro objetivo es proporcionar soluciones jurídicas efectivas para ayudarte a navegar por las complejidades del sistema migratorio portugués.

    Problemas con AIMA: Cómo Podemos Ayudarte

    Muchos inmigrantes en Portugal se enfrentan a obstáculos al intentar obtener o renovar su título de residencia, además de sufrir largos retrasos en los procesos de reagrupación familiar y otros servicios esenciales. La dificultad para agendar citas, la falta de respuesta a las solicitudes y el incumplimiento de los plazos legales por parte de AIMA son problemas comunes.

    Nuestro despacho de derecho de inmigración está preparado para actuar tanto a nivel administrativo como judicial, garantizando que se respeten tus derechos.

    Nuestros Servicios Incluyen:

    • Intervención administrativa directa con AIMA: AIMA está legalmente obligada a responder las solicitudes presentadas por abogados, lo que garantiza que tu proceso reciba la atención necesaria.
    • Acciones judiciales: Cuando AIMA no cumple los plazos legales o no emite decisiones, podemos interponer acciones judiciales para acelerar tu proceso.
    • Asistencia en reagrupación familiar, naturalización y otros servicios relacionados con el derecho de inmigración.

    Consulta Online – La Mejor Manera de Comenzar

    Cada proceso migratorio es único. Antes de contratar cualquier servicio, puedes agendar una consulta online. Durante esta consulta inicial, revisaremos tu caso a fondo y te presentaremos las mejores opciones jurídicas para resolver tu situación con AIMA u otras autoridades migratorias en Portugal.

    Contáctanos

    Si estás enfrentando problemas con AIMA o con cualquier otro proceso migratorio en Portugal, ponte en contacto con el Despacho de Adriano Martins Pinheiro. Agenda una consulta online y descubre cómo podemos ayudarte a resolver tu caso de manera rápida y eficiente.

  • Presentation of Adriano Martins Pinheiro Law Firm – Specialized in Immigration Law in Portugal

    Specialized in Immigration Law in Portugal

    Welcome to the Adriano Martins Pinheiro Law Firm, specializing in immigration law in Portugal. We understand the difficulties and challenges faced by immigrants when dealing with immigration processes, especially when interacting with AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum). Our goal is to provide effective legal solutions to help you navigate the complexities of the Portuguese immigration system.

    Problems with AIMA: How We Can Help

    Many immigrants in Portugal encounter obstacles when trying to obtain or renew their residence permits, as well as long delays in family reunification processes and other essential services. Scheduling appointments is often difficult, requests are left unanswered, and AIMA frequently fails to meet legal deadlines.

    Our immigration law firm is fully equipped to take action on both administrative and judicial levels, ensuring that your rights are respected.

    Our Services Include:

    • Direct administrative intervention with AIMA: AIMA is legally required to respond to requests made by lawyers, ensuring your process receives attention.
    • Judicial actions: When AIMA fails to meet legal deadlines or does not issue decisions, we can file legal actions to speed up your process.
    • Assistance with family reunification, naturalization, and other services related to immigration law.

    Online Consultation – The Best Way to Start

    Every immigration process is unique. Before hiring any service, you can schedule an online consultation. During this initial consultation, we will thoroughly review your case and present the best legal options to resolve your situation with AIMA or other immigration authorities in Portugal.

    Contact Us

    If you’re experiencing issues with AIMA or any other immigration process in Portugal, reach out to the Adriano Martins Pinheiro Law Firm. Schedule an online consultation and find out how we can help you resolve your case quickly and efficiently.

  • Problems with AIMA: How an Immigration Lawyer Can Resolve Your Processes in Portugal

    Immigrating to Portugal can be a process filled with challenges, particularly when dealing with AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum), the successor to SEF (Foreigners and Borders Service).

    If you are an immigrant struggling to obtain or renew your residence permit, or if you have been waiting for family reunification for months, know that these are common problems — but they can be resolved with the right help.

    In this article, we will discuss the main issues immigrants face in Portugal regarding AIMA and how a specialized lawyer can be the key to overcoming these obstacles efficiently.

    Main Problems with AIMA Affecting Immigrants

    The lack of structure within AIMA is one of the biggest pain points faced by immigrants in Portugal. Many people are stuck in an endless cycle of waiting, unable to get responses or move forward with their cases.

    Here are some of the most frequent challenges:

    1. Difficulty in Scheduling Appointments

    The scheduling process at AIMA is one of the most critical points. Immigrants must book an appointment by phone. However, often there are no available slots, leaving people with no clear timeline for getting assistance. Without this appointment, it is impossible to move forward with residence permit renewal processes or family reunification requests.

    2. Delays in Issuing and Renewing Residence Permits

    Another recurring problem is the delay in AIMA issuing or renewing residence permits. There are reports of immigrants waiting for over a year for a response. This delay can lead to serious consequences, such as difficulties in working, studying, or accessing essential services.

    3. Lack of Response to Emails and Pending Processes

    In addition to the difficulties with phone and in-person service, AIMA is notorious for not responding to emails efficiently, which exacerbates the frustration of immigrants. There are more than 400 pending processes, with no clear solution or timeline for progress.

    4. Difficulties with Family Reunification

    Many immigrants in Portugal wish to bring their families to the country through family reunification. However, the lack of available appointment slots and the delay in processes make this goal almost unattainable for many. Without proper assistance, families remain separated for months or even years.

    How a Specialized Lawyer Can Help

    The good news is that these problems can be solved more efficiently with the help of a specialized immigration lawyer. The lawyer knows the legal deadlines and rules that AIMA must follow and can act both administratively and judicially to ensure that your rights are respected.

    1. Administrative Intervention

    Through administrative channels, a lawyer can directly engage with AIMA, forcing a response and follow-up on the case. Unlike standard emails, which are often ignored, AIMA is required to respond to requests made by lawyers. This ensures that your case receives the necessary attention and doesn’t remain stagnant.

    2. Judicial Process

    If AIMA continues to fail to meet deadlines or refuses to issue a decision on your case, a lawyer can file a lawsuit to demand that the agency fulfill its legal obligations. This is an effective solution for those who have been waiting a long time without answers.

    3. Family Reunification

    In cases of family reunification, a lawyer can help expedite the process and ensure that the family’s rights are respected, shortening the waiting time and increasing the chances of success in the application.

    When to Seek a Lawyer?

    If you have been waiting for a response from AIMA for months, if you cannot schedule an appointment, or if your residence permit renewal is delayed, it’s time to consider seeking help from an immigration lawyer. The lawyer can ensure that your process moves forward and that you get the result you expect within the legal deadlines.

    Additionally, a lawyer can assist you with:

    • Updating personal data with AIMA
    • Naturalization and citizenship processes
    • Advising on work and study visas
    • Legal representation in case of denial of requests

    Conclusion

    The lack of structure at AIMA is a problem that affects thousands of immigrants in Portugal, but it does not have to be an insurmountable obstacle. With the help of a specialized lawyer, you can overcome these issues, receive faster responses, and ensure that your rights are respected.

    If you are facing difficulties with AIMA and need legal assistance, contact our law firm. We are ready to help you resolve your case quickly and efficiently, using our vast experience in immigration law.

    Schedule a consultation now and find out how we can help you!

    Adriano Martins Pinheiro | Immigration Lawyer in Portugal

  • Update of Personal Data for Residence Permit Renewal: Legal Challenges and Solutions

    Update of Personal Data for Residence Permit Renewal: Legal Challenges and Solutions

    Introduction

    Portugal’s Foreigners Law imposes the obligation to update personal data for immigrants, including changes of address, marital status, and other relevant information. However, many immigrants face significant difficulties when trying to update their data due to inefficiencies in the AIMA services. This article addresses these challenges and highlights the importance of seeking specialized legal assistance.

    Challenges in Updating Personal Data

    The Foreigners Law requires that any changes in address, marital status, or other relevant personal data be communicated to the relevant authorities. Keeping this information up to date is crucial to ensure that records remain accurate and compliant with the law.

    However, many immigrants encounter barriers when attempting to update this information. The main issues include difficulties in accessing AIMA services. Frequent complaints include:

    • Lack of Phone Support: Many immigrants report that AIMA does not answer phone calls, making it difficult to obtain information or schedule appointments.
    • Unanswered Emails: The lack of responses to emails sent to AIMA worsens the situation, creating a communication gap.
    • Restricted In-Person Service: AIMA does not offer walk-in services without a prior appointment, and scheduling must be done by phone – which either goes unanswered or informs that no slots are available, creating a frustrating cycle of difficulties.

    The Importance of Legal Assistance

    Faced with these challenges, many immigrants find it essential to hire a specialized lawyer to handle immigration-related matters. Legal assistance can be crucial in resolving issues like these.

    Why Choose Our Law Firm

    Our firm has extensive experience in immigration law. With a team of specialized lawyers, we provide comprehensive support to address the difficulties many immigrants face when dealing with AIMA.

    Adriano Martins Pinheiro is a lawyer in Portugal.